Max Holloway has built a reputation for delivering unforgettable moments in the octagon, and after his electrifying last-second knockout of Justin Gaethje at UFC 300, he is determined to replicate that feat in his upcoming bout. Scheduled for UFC 318, Holloway faces Dustin Poirier in what will be Poirier’s final UFC fight, a moment Holloway plans to make memorable by securing another viral knockout.
Holloway’s recent finish against Gaethje became instantly iconic when, despite already holding a significant lead on points, he dared his opponent to engage in an all-out slugfest in the last seconds. That gamble paid off as Holloway landed a knockout punch with only one second remaining, leaving fans stunned across the arena and around the world. With that kind of confidence, Holloway is ready to bring the same intensity against Poirier.
Holloway’s Signature “Point-Down” Challenge Could Ignite the Fight
Inviting opponents to engage by pointing to the canvas has become synonymous with Holloway’s fighting style since he first displayed it in a 2016 clash with Ricardo Lamas. When asked about replicating this move against Poirier, Holloway enthusiastically confirmed his willingness to provoke the same kind of battle.
If we get to the fifth round with the 10 seconds left, I think he might beat me to it and point down first. For sure, I’m going to happily accept that any day of the week.
—Max Holloway, UFC Fighter
This challenge adds a thrilling layer to the final moments of any fight, signaling Holloway’s desire to go for a highlight-reel finish rather than settling for a decision victory, even against an opponent as skilled and respected as Poirier.
Building on UFC 300’s Thunderous Knockout to Boost Title Hopes
Holloway’s knockout over Gaethje turned him into one of the most talked-about fighters on one of the UFC’s largest cards, an achievement he hopes to repeat at UFC 318. The moment from UFC 300 not only revitalized Holloway’s standing within the division but positioned him as a legitimate contender for future title opportunities.
You and I know we live in a sport where moments are king,
Holloway said.
If I can go out there and I can have a UFC 300 moment again, come here July 19, who’s to say I’m not right there for an undisputed title shot again?
He further emphasized his ambition by adding,
If I can go out there and create a moment, create a moment close to 300 — imagine I go out there and do my thing and I have a thing like 300, a 10-second knockout — I’m right back in there with the title shot, title talks.
Holloway’s confidence is grounded in the belief that spectacular finishes can catapult fighters back into championship contention, especially in a sport where memorable moments define career trajectories.
Setback Against Ilia Topuria Fuels Holloway’s Determination
Despite his recent success, Holloway’s path has not been without challenges. At UFC 308 in October, he suffered the first knockout loss of his career at the hands of Ilia Topuria, the current undisputed lightweight champion. This defeat has added extra motivation as Holloway aims to reclaim his place among the elite fighters in his weight class.
Holloway expressed his respect for Topuria’s recent rise in the division, especially after Topuria’s decisive victory over Charles Oliveira at UFC 317. The win secured Topuria’s place at the top, making a potential rematch between Holloway and Topuria a tantalizing prospect as they now compete in the same weight class.
I was ecstatic when they announced he was fighting for the undisputed title against who he was fighting with,
Holloway said, referencing the bout between Topuria and Oliveira.
I have history with both men so I was like brother, I’ve just got to go out there and do my job and hopefully here soon we find out where the lay of the land is looking.
Holloway acknowledged the dominance Topuria displayed against Oliveira, who was dismantled early in their fight. He noted that the outcome of the contest was exactly what he expected.
At the end of the day, he looked very good. He’s doing what he’s doing and it’s all respect to him. We have history. I go out there, I do some type of moment, you know how this sport goes and I’m right back in there.
Respect for Poirier but a Determination to Spoil His Farewell
Max Holloway’s upcoming fight holds additional significance because it marks the final UFC appearance for Dustin Poirier, a competitor Holloway first faced during his UFC debut in 2012. Their rivalry peaked in their 2019 rematch, which earned Fight of the Year honors, showing the deep respect and history these two share.
Nevertheless, Holloway has no intention of making Poirier’s retirement easy. He is prepared to hand Poirier a loss in his farewell appearance, maintaining his own pursuit of championship glory.
It sucks to be spoiler but it has to be done,
Holloway admitted.
When he’s riding off into the sunset, I’m still going to be here chugging along, trying to get a title shot or trying to become a double-champ and make history.
He added,
At the end of the day, I’ve got to go out there and do my thing. It sucks that it has to be this one, it has to be Dustin’s last one but that’s the way the cards unfold.
Upcoming Fight Could Shape the Lightweight Division’s Future
The outcome of UFC 318 will likely have ripple effects across the lightweight division. A victory for Holloway could reignite his climb towards another title shot and potentially a historic status as a double-champion, while Poirier looks to cap off his UFC career on a high note.
For fans and fighters alike, this matchup presents an intense, emotional battle where history, respect, and competitive fire converge. Holloway’s focus on creating moments that define his legacy ensures that this fight will be approached with maximum intensity and stakes.
As the date approaches, anticipation builds for a contest that promises to deliver drama and possibly another unforgettable knockout moment, further enriching the narrative of both fighters and the UFC’s lightweight division.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is Dustin Poirier a millionaire?
A. Poirier is expected to have a net worth of $10 million by 2025. He has wisely spread out his earnings by securing big endorsement deals with companies like Venum. Additionally, he is involved in charitable work through “The Good Fight Foundation,” which helps communities in need.